Nitro- and nitrate-modified fatty acids that affect blood-vessel signaling
Nitro-nitrate fatty acid derivatives as novel cGMP-dependent and cGMP-independent signaling mediators
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11237163
This project looks at whether nitro- and nitrate-modified fats formed from certain foods change blood-vessel signaling and reduce inflammation linked to heart and vascular disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11237163 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Scientists are studying how dietary components like conjugated linoleic acid together with nitrite/nitrate can form nitro- and nitrate-modified fatty acids in the body. They will examine how these modified fats chemically attach to key proteins and alter cell signaling in blood vessels, including both cGMP-dependent and cGMP-independent pathways. The work combines laboratory experiments, animal models, and analysis of clinical samples or data to trace these molecules and their anti-inflammatory effects. The team aims to learn whether these natural chemical changes could help protect blood vessels and lower cardiovascular risk.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for future participation would be people with cardiovascular disease or risk factors (such as atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, or chronic inflammation) who might donate samples or join related trials.
Not a fit: People without cardiovascular risk or those seeking immediate treatment should not expect direct personal benefit from this basic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could point to new diet-based or drug-like ways to protect blood vessels and reduce inflammation in people at risk for heart disease.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier preclinical studies and some clinical observations have shown that nitro-fatty acids can trigger anti-inflammatory and protective responses, but translating these findings into treatments is still early and experimental.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FAZZARI, MARCO — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: FAZZARI, MARCO
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.